The statue was green-lit in 2016, and recreates one of the late guitar great’s most famous poses from a 1972 Melody Maker cover

A statue of late blues-rock guitar icon Rory Gallagher drew mixed responses when it was unveiled in Ireland in January 2025.

A statue has been unveiled in Belfast, in tribute of the Irish musician Rory Gallagher, 30 years after his death.

Barry McGivern, of the Rory Gallagher Statue Project Trust, said it was a "fitting tribute". "Rory came up to Belfast in 1967 and it was a vibrant music scene," McGivern told BBC News NI.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the death of Rory Gallagher. The Irish guitarist-songwriter founded the short-lived blues rock band Taste before embarking on a celebrated solo career, and his playing influenced a number of guitar legends.

A commemorative statue of composer and musician Rory Gallagher has been unveiled in Belfast, honouring his life, music and connection to the city. The life-sized statue of Gallagher is located outside Ulster Hall, a venue he played regularly.